Washing apparatus



April 18, 1939. J H, CLARK 2,155,254

WASHING APPARATUS 2 Sheets-Sheet 1 Filed April 24, 1934 'wmmm a.

Jesse H. Clark,

Hus A-tcorneg.

April 18, 1939. J. H. CLARK 2,155,254

WASHING APPARATUS Filed April 24, 1934 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 Inventor: Jesse Hv Ciark,

is Attorneg.

Patented Apr. 18, 1939 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE 2.155.254 WASHING APPARATUS Jesse H. Clark,

assignments,

General Electric Apa corporation of New Application April 24, 1934, Serial N0. 722,099

11 Claims.

This invention relates to washing apparatus, more particularly to apparatus for washing dishes, and it has for its object the provision of improved apparatus of this character.

More specifically, this invention relates to dishwashing apparatus wherein a cleansing fluid, such as water, is circulated or hurled through the washing vat by suitable power driven means, such as a motor driven impeller, so as to effect a cleans- 1 ing action on the dishes supported within the vat.

In one of its aspects, this invention contemplates the provision of improved washing apparatus whereby suitable cleansing steps, such as 15 rinsing and washing operations, can be efiected in a simple, reliable and eflicient manner.

In another of its aspects, this invention conthe provision of improved manually operable control means for controlling the apparatus so that it will eflect these rinsing and washtemplated that the signal when the machine is draining, when it is being filled and when it is in its condition.

In accordance with this invention, the vat for 4.; receiving the dishes to be cleansed is provided with water supply and drain conduits, and these conduits are controlled respectively by supply and drain valves. Within the vat is a suitable motor driven impeller arranged to circulate the cleansing water admitted to the vat over and about the dishes supported within the vat so as to effect a washing action upon them. Also arranged within the vat is a suitable spray device, preffrably of the reaction type, which receives the water supplied to the vat and hurls it in oil or inoperative;

spray form over the dishes so as to eflect a rinsing action of the dishes. Whether or not the dishes it can be engaged by the impeller for more positive circulation in the vat for the washing action proper.

The fluid supply and drain valves and also the impeller driving motor, are controlled by suitable 15 means so as to eifect rinsing and washing actions dependently of the other and at attendant. The control device comprises suitable g0 cams for operating the valves, and also for operating a switch for controlling the operation of the impeller motor. These cams are driven to the cam shaft to suc- 30 The control further comprises suitable means controlling the electromagnetic device so that The electromagnetic device, driving the cam 45 For a more complete understanding. of this invention, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings in which Fig. 1 is a perspective 5 I Fig. 4 is an elevation vat is supported view, partly diagrammatic, illustrating dishwashing apparatus embodying this invention, parts of the apparatus being shown in section and parts 'so as to illustrate certain details of construction;

Fig. 3 is a vertical elevation in section illustrating a manually operable control device used in the dishwashing apparatus of Figs. 1 and 2; partly in section of the control device of Fig. 3, but illustrating certain of the parts in different operative conditions, and having certain parts removed; Fig. 5 is a fragmentary. elevation partly in section of the control device of Figs. 3 and 4, but illustrating certain of the parts in still different operative conditions; Fig. 6 is a plan view of the control apparatus of Figs. 3, 4 and 5, parts being shown in section and parts being broken away so as to illustrate certain details of construction; and Fig. 'I is a plan view of the control apparatus of Figs. 3. 4 and 5.

Referring to the drawings, more particularly to Fig. 2, this invention is shown in one form as applied to dishwashing apparatus comprising a casing Ill having a rear wall ll, side walls l2, bottom and front walls (not shown) and a top wall i3. These walls are suitably shaped and joined together to define a substantially rectan lar casing, and may be formed 'of any suitable material, such as steel, preferably enameled.

A suitable vat I4 is supported in an upright position within the casing Ill. The vat is formed of any suitable material, such as sheet metal, which, as shown, is shaped to define a relatively deep chamber, rectangular in cross-section. The by any suitable means in its upright position within the casing. The supporting means forms no part of the present invention and it is believed to be unnecessary, therefore, to describe it in detail.

A removable cover i5 is provided for the vat l4, this cover, as shown, being provided with suitable hinge means it securing it to the upper wall l8 of the casing. The cover is provided with a handle [5a whereby it may be conveniently moved between its open and closed positions.

Preferably, the vat l4 and also the cover l5 will be formed of a suitable rust-resisting steel which will be plated or enameled.

Suitable dish-supporting open-work baskets or racks are removably supported in the lower and upper portions of the vat l4. While any suitable dish and utensil supporting racks may be used, it is preferable to use racks arranged substantially in accordance with those described and claimed in the copending application of Forrest A. Walker, Serial No. 621,042, filed July 6, 1932, now matured into Patent No. 2,035,625, and assigned to the same assignee as this invention. It is believed to be unnecessary to describe these racks in detail in this application because they form no part of the present invention. In brief, however, these racks are of open-work form, the general contour ,of both racks being rectangular so as to fit within the rectangular vat I4. The lower rack l1 only has been shown, but it will be understood that an open-work rack will be positioned directly above it in superposed relation with it.

Arranged within the lower rack is a tray or basket l8 adapted to receive knives, forks, etc.

The bottom wall of the vat i4 is provided with aromas A peller 22 mounted a resilient ring-shaped a pluraiity (four) center of the botarrangedcentrally of the vat. v

, In the lower portion of the vat l4 directly above the bottom opening 2| is a suitable impeller 22 arranged to rotate on an axis substantially co-.

axial with the vertical central axis of the vat and with the axis of the opening 2|. The'im= below the bottom wall of the vat and having its shaft 284 (Fig. 1) extending through 'the opening 2! into the vat where it has a drivin connection with the impeller.

The motor 28 is supported in the bottom wall of thevat by means of a supporting frame 24; -This frame 24 is secured to a flange 28 on the .vat, surrounding the opening 2|, by means of a plurality of bolts 28 (Fig. 1) which are passed through suitable apertures provided for them in the flange and received in a clamping ring 21 supported on the upper side of the flange 25. The frame 24, as shown, is provided with a depending skirt 28 of relatively large diameter.

This skirt serves to secure and support the motor 28. The motor 28 is secured directly to a ring shaped member which in turn is secured to the skirt 28 by means of a plurality of bolts 8|.

Bosses Mo on member 28 provide suflicient material to receive the ends of bolts 3i. Preferably,

member 82 will be interposed between the ring 80 and the skirt 28.

The frame 24, in addition to serving as a support for the impeller driving motor 23 has several additional functions; it serves to convey fresh cleansing water to suitable water distributing and circulating means in the vat i4, and further, serves to conduct the soiled water from the vat to a suitable drain. As shown, the frame is provided with a passageway or conduit 88 which functions to convey fresh cleansing water to the vat and with a drain passageway 34 which functions to drain soiled fluid from the vat.

The drain chamber 84, as shown. has a substantially circular shape and its bottom wall slopes downwardly from the left side to the right side of the chamber, as viewed in Fig. 1, where it terminates at the right side in a discharge port 36. This port 86 communicates with a drain conduit 81.

A suitable valve between the vat and the 38 controls communication discharge chamber 84.

o of inclined portions 20.1mm-

slope downwardly toward the tom of the vat and terminate in an opening2l is operated by an electric motor 28' This valve is provided with a closure portion, as

shown, arranged to rest upon a seat 40 so as to close the vat to the drain, and to be elevated from the seat so as to permit soiled water within the vat to flow to the drain. The valve is further provided with a sleeve 4| extending vertically upwardly from the closure portion of the valve and arranged about the motor shaft 28a in substantially concentric relation with it. The

space between the sleeve 4| and the shaft constitutes an over-flow drain passage which, it will be observed, communicates directly with the draining chamber 34.

The valve is operated between its open and closed positions by means of a shaft 42. This shaft is mounted for rotary motion within the frame 24, and, as shown, carries a pair of cranks 48 which engage arms 44 depending from the valve so that when the shaft 42 is rotated in a clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 1, it will open the valve, whereas when it is rotated in the opposite direction it will permit the valve to close.

The frame 24 supporting the motor and definimpeller so as to be circulated ing the fluid supply and drain passageways. together with the arrangement of the drain valve, are arranged in general in accordance with the disclosure in the copending application of Karl K. Huppmann, Serial No. 657.781, flied February 21, 1933 and assigned to the same assignee as this invention.

The fluid supply passageway 33 communicates with an upright conduit 45 within the vat. This conduit, as shown, is connected at its lower end with a vertical passageway 46 within the clamping ring 21. This passageway in turn communicates with the supply passageway 33. The upright conduit 45 is turned inwardly to the central vertical axis of the vat, as shown in Fig. 2, and communicates with an upright conduit 41. This conduit in turn communicates with a suitable reaction spray device 41a. It will be observed, in view of this arrangement, that the fluid supplied to the conduit 33 will flow directly to the reaction spray device 41a from which it issues into the vat. In issuing into the vat, it rotates the spray device at a relatively high speed to circulate the water through the dish-supporting racks so as to effect a rinsing action on the dishes within the vat.

The impeller 22 is provided with blades 22a, as shown, which may have any suitable shape, the important feature being that they be given a shape such that cleansing fluid placed withinv the vat and allowed to accumulate therein will be thrown upwardly and outwardly through the dish-supporting racks in an eflicient manner by the rotary motion of the impeller so as to effect a. washing action on the dishes within the racks. The blades 22a 01' the impeller are mounted upon an apron-like member 2% (Fig. 2) which surrounds the upright sleeve ll of the drain valve, there being sufficient clearance between these members to prevent any interference by the valve to the rotation of the impeller or by the impeller to the operation of the valve between its open and closed position.

Whether or not the impeller can function to wash the dishes depends upon the position of the drain valve 38. If the drain valve be in its open position while water is being supplied to the vat through the reaction spray device 41a, the water will gravitate to the bottom of the vat and flow directly to the drain 31. On the other hand, if the drain valve be closed while the water is being supplied to the vat, the water which gravitates to the bottom of the vat will accumulate therein in a pool which is engaged by the upwardly and outwardly with considerable force through the dishsupporting racks. That is, assuming that water is being supplied to the vat, whether or not a washing or a rinsing action is effected depends upon the position of the drain valve.

Water is supplied to the vat from a suitable source of supply 48 through a controlling valve 50 to the passageway 33 by means of a conduit i. As shown, the valve 50 comprises a closure member 52 which controls communication between the conduit 48 and the conduit 5|. The valve 52 cooperates with a seat 53 which divides the valve housing into two chambers 54 and 54a, the former communicating with the fluid supply 48 and the latter with the conduit iii. A piston 55 is connected with the valve to operate it to and from its seat 53. This piston is arranged to reciprocate within a cylinder 56, which, as will be seen in Fig. 1, defines the outer wall of the chamber 54. It will be observed that rat.

the inlet conduit 48 communicates with the valve chamber at a point between the Piston I4 and the valve seat.

result, to close the valve. The pilot valve to its closed position by means of a spring 60, and is moved to its open means of a cam 6| ficurled to the pilot valve, as clearly shown in This fluid supply cam it also controls the admission of a suitable soap or detergent to the caused to flow into the vat through the conduit 64 by causing an equal quantity of water to flow into the lower end of the container. the container i'orces the portion of the container 64 and thence to the vat.

Water is supplied to the lower end of the cylinder from the supply source 48 through a conduit 65, which at its lower end communicates with the valve 50 and at its upper end communicates with a conduit 68 (Fig. 2). This latter conduit 65 opens into the lower portion oi the vat below a distributing screen 61.

The fluid supply from the conduit 43 to the conduit 65 is controlled by means of a valve 63 which is operated by the cam solution in the upper out into the conduit mined distance, it will engage an abutment II on the valve and move the valve to its open position.

This introduction of water to The cam ii is mounted upon a cam shaft 12 which is o ted by suitable control mechanism, .as i be pointed out in greater detail hereinafter.

Also mounted upon this shaft 12 is cam I8 8 arranged to operate the drain valve between its 1 open and closed position.

As shown, this cam bears against a follower 18a which is secured to the valve shaft 82.

The shaft 12 is also utilized to control the en- 10 ergization of the impeller driving motor 28. This 18 ply source motor is energized from a suitable source of electrical supply, one side of which is represented by the conductor 14 and the other side by the conductor II. The motor is connected to this supthrough a suitable controlling switch I8 which, when it is in its closed position, connects the motor directly across the supply source I8, 18. The operation of this switch to its closed position is eflected by means of a cam 11 mounted 88' upon the cam shaft I2.

The cam shaft 12 is operated to successive controlling positions by means of an electromagnetic device 18 which is mechanically connected to operate the shaft to. successive controlling posi- 2 .tions by successive operations of the electromagnetic device. The electromagnetic device is mechanically connected to the shaft I2 by a suitable pawl and ratchet arrangement. As

shown (Fig. 1), a ratchet 88 iskeyed on the cam 80 shaft. Cooperating with this ratchet is a pawl 86 by means of a link 88.

ergized it will attract its armature and in doing 45 through one step of motion.

82 and the pawl 8| mounted on it in a counterclockwise direction, thereby moving the ratchet wheel 88 and the attached cam shaft I2 in a counter-clockwise direction When the electro magnet I8 is deenergized, the tension spring 85 will return the arm 82 to its position against the stop 88.

The electromagnetic device I8 is also energized from the supply source I4, 15. Its energization is controlled by means of a suitable switch 88. The operation of this switch is controlled by means of a control device 81. This control device, as shown, comprises'a manually operable push button 88 which controls a plunger 98 so that when it is depressed it will effect the closure of the switch 88 to energize the electromagnet 18. The switch is moved directly to its closed position by means of a latching member so will rotate the arm so 8|, shown more clearly in Figs. 3, 4 and 5.

The switch 88 comprises a fixed contact 8811 mounted within the housing 92 of the control device 81. Cooperating with this contact is a movable contact 881) which is formed of a re- 5 silient electrically'conducting material arranged so that the contact 88b is biased to its open position by the inherent resiliency of the arm. The latch 9| is also mounted within the housing 92 on a suitable standard .98. As shown, the latch has a pin and slot connection 98 with this standard so that the latch can be moved in a vertical direction relative to the standard to a limited extent. The latch 9| is biased in a counter-clockwise direction, as viewed in Figs. 3,

1s 4 and 5, by meansoi a compression spring 85.

the latch 8|, but

The plunger 88, o erated by the push button 88, is arranged to engage a cam surface Ila on the latch so that when the push button is depressed from its position shown in P18. .8 to its position shown in Fig. 4, it will not only depress also will move it in a centerits position shown in Fig.

clockwise direction to 4. When the latch is thus moved to its position shown in Fig. 4, it will engage an abutment 88 carried by the movable contact 88b, as clearly shown in this figure. when the push button 88 is then released the spring 88 will force the latch upwardly and in a counter-clockwise direction so as to close the switch 88 and so as to return the plunger 88 and the push button 88 to their positions shown in Fig. 8.

In view of the foregoing operation, it will be observed that when the push button 88 is depressed and released it will eflect the closure of the switch 88 which operation in turn will eflect the energization of the electromagnetic device I8 to advance the cam shaft 12 to controlling position.

The latch 8I is released so as to permit the switch 88 to open by means of an electromagnetic device 81 arranged at the control station 81 and in the housing 82, as clearly shown in Figs. 3, '4 and 5. This electromagnet is provided with an armature 98 normally supported in an extended position, as shown in Fig. l and in dotted lines in Figs. 3, 4 and 5, by means of a compression spring I88. The armature 88 carries on its lower end a pin I8I. This pin "I is arranged to engage a cam surface 8") on the latch member 9| when the electromagnet 81 is energized to attract its armature 98 so as to move the latch in a clockwise direction, as viewed in Figs. 3, 4 and 5, to thereby effect the release of the switch arm 88b.

The electromagnet 91 is also energized from the electrical supply source I8, 15 and its energization is controlled by means of a switch I82. The switch I82 is operated by means of a cam I88,

a successive I which in turn is operated by means of the electromagnetic device 18. As shown, the cam I88 is mounted for free rotation upon the shaft I2 and is rigidly connected with the arm 82 so that every time the arm 82 is rotated by the electromagnet to advance the cam shaft through one step, the cam I88 will be operated to close the switch I82. Thus, every time the electromagnet I8 is energized by the closure of the switch 88 to advance the cam shaft, when the shaft I2 approaches the end of its step of motion, the cam I88 will move the switch I82 to close, whereby the energization of the electromagnet 81 will be effected; this device thereupon will operate to effect the release of the switch 88 to pemiit itto open. This release, of course, permits the spring 85 of the electromagnet I8 to retract the arm 82 to its position shown in Fig. 1. This moves the cam I88 so as to open the switch I82. The foregoing operation conditions the switch 88 for a subsequent operation by the push button 88.

As pointed out in a: previous portion of this specification, suitable means are provided for automatically controlling the supply of water to the vat so as to measure a predetermined quantity. This means comprises suitable means for automatically controlling the operation of the electromagnet I8 under certain conditions of operation. This automatic means is controlled in accordance with the load imposed upon the impeller driving motor 28.

This automatic means includes an electromagnetic device Ill arranged to control a switch I06. The switch I06, together with a second switch I01, eifects the automatic control of the electromagnetic device 10. The switch I01 is controlled by means of a cam I08 which is mounted upon the cam shaft 12 and hence is controlled by means of the electromagnet 10. The switch I06 is also controlled by means of a cam IIO which is mounted upon the shaft 12.

The function of the switch I01 is to connect the armature circuit of the motor23 to the electrical nmp y source 14, 16 through the operating coil of the electromagnet I05 so that the energization of this coil is substantially proportional to the magnitude of the armature current of the motor 23, and the function of the switch I06 acting with the switch I01 is to energize the electromagnet 16 at the proper time.

The electromagnetic device I06 functions to latch the switch I06 in its open position after it has been moved to this position. by the cam H0. This is accomplished by me mounted latch III spring biased detent I I2 on the switch arm so its open position.

v Under certain conditions of operation, as will be pointed out hereinafter, the switch I01 is closed by the operation of the electromagnet 18 to connect the motor in the supply source through the operating coil of the electromagnet I05 which when the armature current attains a predetermined magnitude attracts the latch III to release the switch I06 which thereupon closes. When the switch I06 closes it eflects the energization of the electromagnet 18 through the switch I01, which will be closed at this time, to eflect an automatic operation of them shaft 12 to close the inlet valve 62. In other words, when the load upon the motor 23, that is when a predetermined quantity of water has been supplied to the vat, the electromagnet 10 is automatically controlled to shut off the supp y of water.

Suitable signal means are provided for indicating to the attendant the condition of operation of the apparatus. In other words, suitable means are provided for denoting to the attendant what condition the control device is in and what the corresponding controlling action of the washing apparatus is. This signal device comprises an indicating dial III located at the control station, preferably within the housing 62, as shown in Fig. 3. This dial is provided with a number of indications representing a number of controlling positions of the cam shaft 12. In the particular apparatus shown, the cam shaft has nine controlling positions, and the dial will have numbers I to 0 inclusive, and also a zero position indicating the "011 position. As shown more particularly in Fig. 7, the numerals 0 to 8 are supplemented by other indications denoting the operative conditions of the control, as there indicated, the dial is provided with the word "Oil'" corresponding to the zero position, the word Rinse corresponding to the position I, the word Fill to the position 2, the word Wash" to the position 3, the word Drain to the position 4, the word Fill to the position 5, the word Wash to the position 6, the word Drain to the position 1 and the word Rinse to the position 8. It is to be understood that in any case the indicating dial will be appropriately marked so as to denote which of any of the controlling positions that the shaft 12 might be in.

The dial I I4 is advanced one step each time the push button 88 is depressed. This is accomand 6), this drive it will be understood that the plished by means of a pawl and ratchet drive operated by the electromagnet 01. As shown (Figs. 1

comprises a ratchet II5 secured to the dial 4, anda pawl I I6 cooperating with the ratchet. The pawl H6 is mounted upon a pivotallymounted lever or arm III, shown more particularly in Figs. 1 and 6. The lever Ill is operated by means of a drum II8 which is arranged to rotate on the axis of the plunger 00. As shown, the drum I I8 is provided with an upright pin I20 which is received in a slot I2I provided for it in the arm II1 so that when the drum is rotated the arm I I1 will be rotated with it.

The drum I I8 in turn is driven by means of the plunger or armature 98 which at its upper end carries a laterally projecting pin I22 which moves vertically within a slot I23 provided in a stationary cylinder I24 surrounding the plunger 96. The cylinder H8 is provided with a slot I25 inclined in such a direction and at such an angle that when the plunger 98 is attracted by the electromagnet 91 it will rotate the cylinder H8, and hence, the arm H1 in a clockwise direction to advance the indicating dial H4 in a corresponding direction through one step of its motion. The ratchet and the dial are prevented from over-traveling by means of an abutment or projection I26 on the arm I I 1 which at the end of the stroke of the arm to advance the dial moves in front of a tooth in the ratchet H5 to prevent further rotation of the ratchet. A spring I26a bears against the ratchet to prevent movement of the ratchet and dial during the return movement of the arm H1. The plunger 98 is extended by means of the spring I00 which will return the cylinder H8, the arm H1 and the pawl 6 to their positions shown in Figs. 1 and 6 for a subsequent operation of the dial.

Preferably, the dial II4 will be covered by a glass member I21. The dial I I4 will preferably be made of a suitable translucent material, and under the dial will be placed a suitable source of light which will be energized whenever the control member is moved from its off position so as to give a visual indication when the apparatus is operating. As shown, in Figs. 1 and 3, the source of light comprises a suitable incandescent lamp I28 which is mounted within a casing I29 attached to the casing 92. A window I30 is provided between the two casings so that light rays can pass directy from the lamp to the casing 92 under the dial H4. The lamp is energized from the source 14 and 15 and its energization is controlled by means of a switch I3I which in turn is controlled by means of a cam I32 mounted upon the cam shaft 12. This cam is arranged to hold the switch closed whenever the shaft 12 has been moved from its position corresponding to the "01? position of the control.

It will be understood that all of the switches 16, I02, I06, I01 and I3I are biased to their open positions by any suitable means, such as the inherent resiliency of the movable contact member. In other words, when the movable contact members of these switches are released by their cams, the switches will be moved to their open positions.

In the operation of the dishwashing apparatus, dishes and other respective supporting trays within the vat. After the dishes have been placed within it, the cover I5 will be closed and the apparatus is then in condition for cleansing thedishes.

Under the initial condition, when the indicating dial is in its at! position, the controlling cams will be in such position that the fluid inlet valve 52 will be closed, the detergent valve 80 will be closed, the drain valve 38 will be opened, the impeller motor 23 will be deenergized and so will the lamp I20. The controlling cams and their associated controlled members are shown in their of! positions in Figs. 1 and 2.

In order to start the cleansing cycle, the push button 88 will be de ressed, which operation, as previously pointed out, effects the closure of the switch 88 and the locking thereof by the latch 9|. when this switch is closed, it completes an energizing circuit for the electromagnetic device 18 from the supply conductor 14 through the switch 88, a conductor I35, and thence through the coil of the electromagnetic device 18 and a conductor I38 to the other supply conductor 15. This energizes the electromagnetic device 18 to advance the cam shaft 12 to'its first controlling position, namely, the first rinse position.

The cams are so arranged that in this position of the cam shaft, .the cam 8| operates the fluid inlet valve to its open position so as to allow water to flow from the conduit 48 into the vat through the reaction spray device 41a; the cam 11 closes the switch 18 so as to complete an energizing circuit for the motor 23 from the conductor 14 through the switch 18, a conductor I38a, a conductor I381), the armature circuit of the motor and thence to the supply conductor 15 through the conductor I38; and the cam I32 operates the switch I3I to complete an energizing circuit for the lamp I28 from the supply conductor 14, through the switch I3l, a conductor "Sc and thence through the lamp to the supply conductor 15. This circuit is completed by the cam I32 until the controlling apparatus is returned to its off position.

As previously pointed out, at the end of the rotation of the shaft 12 by the electromagnet 18, the cam I03 will be operated to momentarily close the switch I02 which temporarily completes an energizing circuit for the electromagnetic device 91 from the supply conductor 15, the conductor I38, a conductor I31 and thence through the switch I02 and a conductor I38 to the coil of the electromagnetic device 91 and from there to the supply conductor has been pointed out in detail, effects the release of the latch 9| to permit the switch 88 to move to its open position, thereby deenergizing the electromagnet 18. This magnet, therefore, is returned to its position shown in Fig. l by the spring 85. This operation of the electromagnet 91 also advances the indicating dial I I4 to denote the corresponding controlling position of the apparatus, namely the first rinse position.

Under these conditions, water will flow into the vat from the supply source 48 throught the reaction spray device 41a so as to effect a rinsing action on the dishes and utensils within the vat. This operation will continue until the control is moved from the rinse position.

To effect the washing operation proper, the push button 88 is again depressed and again the electromagnetic device 18 will advance the shaft 12 to another controlling position. This is fill position of the appar tus. This operation of the cam shaft 12 will have moved the cams to such positions that the inlet valve 52 will be held in its open position, the drain valve 38 will have been operated to its closed position and the detergent valve 88 will have been opened by the pin to permit water to flow from the supply source 14. This operation, as

through the conduit 05 to the bottom of the detergent chamber 83; this operation, as has been pointed out previously, will cause detergent in the upper'portion of the cylinder to flow into the vat through the conduit 84. And the switch I02 will have been closed momentarily to energize the electromagnet 81 to release the switch 88 and to advance the indicating dial II4 to denote the "nu" position of the apparatus. The motor 23 in this position of the shaft 12, rather than being energized through the switch 18, will be connected to the supply source 14, through the operating coil of the electromagnetic device I05 by means of the switch I01. In other words, in this position of the shaft the switch 18 will be opened and the switch I01 will be closed. This energizing circuit may be traced from the supply conductor 14, through the switch I01, through the operating coil of the electromagnet I05, thence through the conductor I381) to the armature circuit of the motor 23, and then through the conductor I38 to the supply conductor 15.

Under these conditions, water will flow into the vat from the supply source 48 through the reaction spray device 41a. The water, however, instead of flowing directly to the drain 31 will accumulate in the bottom of the vat because the drain valve is closed. As the quantity of water supplied to-the vat increases, the load imposed upon the impeller 22 gradually increases. This imposes an increasing load upon the motor and as a result, the armature current of the motor 23 gradually increases.

mined maximum value, the armature current will have become sumciently large to cause the electromagnet I05 to attract the latch III and thereby release the switch I08. This switch thereupon closes and completes an energizing circuit for the electromagnetic device 18; this circuit may be traced from the supply conductor 14, through the closed switch I01, a conductor I40, the closed switch I08, thence by means of the conductor I35 to the energizing coil of the electromagnet 18 and thence through the conductor I38 tothe supply conductor 15. This operation causes the electromagnet 18 to advance the cam shaft 12 to another controlling position of the shaft, namely, the wash" position.

By this operation of the cam shaft 12, the cams will have been moved to such positions that the inlet valve 52 will be closed, the detergent valve 88 will be closed and so will the drain valve 30.

when the quantity of water accumulated in the vat reaches a predeter.-

The cam 11 will have closed the switch 18 so as to connect the armature circuit of the motor 23 directly to the supply source 14, 15, while the cam I08 will have allowed its switch I01 to open, thereby cutting the coil of the electromagnet I05 out of the motor circuit. The cam IIO will have operated the switch I08 to its open position in which position it will be latched by the latching member III. The switch I02 again will have been temporarily closed so as to advance the indicating dial II4 to indicate wash. Under these conditions, no more water will flow into the vat, but that which has been supplied will be retained therein by the drain valve, and the motor will operate continuously to drive the impeller to circulate the water upwardly and. outwardly in the vat to effect a thorough washing action on the dishes in the vat. As long as the control apparatus is allowed to remain in this condition the washing action will continue.

When it is desired to discontinue the washing action, the button 88 will again be depressed 15 shaft to the second same-time advances the dial lit to denote second 25 through the electromagnet 2,165,954 the electromagnet llwhich operation will cause to advance the shaft 12 to another controlling position-the drain" position-and at the same time by the operation of the switch I02 will ad- 5 Vance the dial I II to its drain indicating position. During this operation of the cam shaft, the inlet and detergent valves will remain closed and the motor circuit will still be completed through the switch 16. However, the drain valve II will be moved by its cam 13 to its open position to allow the soiled water to drain from the vat.

The apparatus is now-ready for the second washing operation. This-is accomplished by depression of the button 88 which advances the cam fill position, which at the "fill". This effects an operation which is a repetition of the preceding fill operation of the control, with the exception that in this case the detergent valve 68 is not opened. That is, water fiows into the vat from the supply source 48 and is allowed to accumulate therein because the drain valve will have been closed. The motor circuit, as before, is connected to the supply source I05 which functions when the motor load increases to a predetermined value to energize the electromagnet I. to advance the cam shaft to the second "wash" position, in which position the fluid supply valve 52 is closed,

- dicating dial will be driven to the second wash position when the shaft 12' is driven to close the inlet valve. The second wash will continue until the button 88 is again depressed to effect the "second draining of the vat. This operation will move the cams to control their associated devices in exactly the same way as they do in the first drain position, except that in this case the cam 11 will have allowed 1% switch 16 to open, thereby deenergizing the impeller motor 23. I

The apparatus is now in condition for the second or final rinse, which action is efiected by depressing the button 88 to advance the cam {5 shaft to its eighth controlling pomtion, i. e., the final rinse. This operation of the shaft]! causes the dial I to indicate final "rinse, and the cams to control their associated members as latter position.

rinsing action will continue until the button 88 is again depressed to move the cam shaft 12 to the of! position. In this position of the cam shaft, the switches 16, I06, I01 and ISI will all be allowed to move to their open posiwill cause the dial I to advance to denote the ofi position. This completes the cycle of operation.

It is to be understood that it is not necessary to go completely through position and the first second "fill position, after which the machine such as on glassware,

position, except that the motion desired. Thus, suppose it is desired to eifect merely the first rinse and the second "wash" step, eliminating the first fill" erations. After the first rinsing operation has been completed. the operator will depress the button 88 successively to advance the shaft through the first fill position, the first "wash "drain position to the What I claim as new and desire to Letters Patent of the United States, is:

1. In washing apparatus provided with a vat,

secure by ,in combination liquid supply and drain valves for said vat, power-operated means for circulating has een supplied to said vat.

2. washing apparatus a liquid supply conduit vat, a valve controlling the conduit,

said valve, and auxiliary means for automatically control member from a predeter- 3. In dishwashing apparatus provided with a vat, a pair of valves to control the supply of cleaning liquid to the vat and the drainage of liquid from the vat, liquid circulating means in and wash opthe vat, a motor to drive the circulating means, control means for said apparatus comprising a control member for said valva arranged in one position to open the supply valve and close the drainage valve, and in a second position to close the supply valve while the drainage valve remains closed, control means for said control member including a member by the manual operation of which said control member is moved to said one in position and means responsive to the load on said motor to move said control member automatically to said second position to close the supply valve and stop the supply of liquid to the vat when the load on the motor, increasing 1 because of the increasing amount of liquid in the vat, reaches a predetermined magnitude corresponding .to a predetermined amount of liquid in the vat. I

4. In dishwashing apparatus provided with a so vat. avalve to control the supply of cleaning liquid to the vat, liquid circulating means in the vat, a motor to drive the circulating means, control means for said apparatus comprising a cam arranged to control the valve so that in one as position of the cam the valve is open and in a second position the valve is closed, and control means for the cam, the control means including a memberby the manual operation of which the cam can be moved to its first a position in which the valve is open to supply liquid to the vat, and means responsive to the load on the motor to move the cam to its second position to close the valve and stop the supply of liquid to the vat when the load on a the motor, increasing because of the increasing amount of liquid in the vat, reaches a predetermined magnitude corresponding to a predetermined amount of liquid in the vat.

5. In dishwashing apparatus having a vat.

w means for supplying liquid to the vat, a valve controlling the liquid supply means, liquid circulating means in the vat and a driving motor for the liquid circulating means, control means for said apparatus comprising electroresponsive means controlling the operation of said valve to its open and closed positions, an electromagnetically operated switch connected to said electroresponsive means having an inactive position, and an active position wherein it controls the energization of said electroresponsive means to effect an operation of saidvalve, a manually operable control member for moving said switch to said active position, means controlling the energization of said electromagnetic switch to move it to said 5| inactive position responsively to the operation of said electroresponsive means to effect a control of said valve, and means controlled by said electroresponsive means controlling the energization thereof responsively to the load imposed upon go said motor when said motor is operated and said supply valve is opened, due to a predetermined operation of said electroresponsive means, to eiiect the closure of said supply valve when said, load, increasing because of the increase in .5 the amount of liquid in said vat, attains a predetermined magnitude corresponding to a prede termined amount of liquid in said vat.

6. In dishwashing apparatus having a vat, a liquid impeller in the vat, means for 70 supplying liquid to the vat, a valve controlling the liquid supply means, control means for said apparatus comprising a cam controlling the operation of said valve, an electromagnetic device ior operating said cam, manually operable 7 switching means controlling the energization of said electromagnetic device to operate said cam to successive controlling positions, an electromagnetically operated switch controlling the energization of said electromagnetic device having an open position, and a closed position wherein said electromagnetic device is energized to advance said cam to a controlling position, means operated by said electromagnetic device, when operated by said manually operable switching means to move said cam to a selected controlling posi- 10 tion, for operating said switch to its open posi tion, and. means controlling the energizatlon of said electromagnetically operated switch to move it to its closed position responsively to'the armature current of said motor when said valve is open, so as to effect the operation of said electromagnetic device to move said cam to shut said valve when said armature current, increasing because of the increasing amount of liquid in said vat, attains a predetermined magnitude corresponding to a predetermined quantity of liquid in said vat.

'7. In dishwashing apparatus having a vat, a .a

valve controlling the supply of liquid to the vat,

a liquid circulating impeller in the vat and a driving motor for the impeller, a control system for said apparatus comprising cams controlling the operation of said valve and motor respectively, a cam shaft for operating said cams so that in one controlling position of said shaft said motor is operating and said valve is opened to supply liquid to said vat, and in another controlling position said valve is shut while said motor is operating, an electromagnetic device connected to operate said shaft to successive controlling positions by successive operations of a said electromagnetic device, a manually operable control device controlling the energization of said electromagnetic device to operate, it successively, a second electromagnetic device controlling the energlzation of said first electromagnetic device having an active condition wherein when it is energized it eflects the operation of said first electromagnetic device to opcrate said shaft to a succeeding controlling position, and an inactive condition, cam means on said shaft controlling said second electromagnetic device when said shaft is operated to a predetermined controlling position by operation of said manually operable control member so as to effect 6 said inactive condition and so as to eflect said active condition when said shaft is moved to said one controlling position by said manually operable control device wherein said motor is operating and said valve is opened to supply liquid to said vat, and means controlling the energiza-,

, tion of said second electromagnetic device when in said active condition responsively to the magnitude of said armature current of said motor so as to effect-the operation of said first electrom magnetic device to move said shaft to said other controlling positions to shut oil the supply of liquid to said vat when said armature current, increasing because of the increasing amount of liquid in said vat, attains a predetermined magnig tude corresponding to a predetermined amount of liquid in said vat.

8. In dishwashing apparatus having a vat, means for supplying liquid to the vat, a valve controlling the liquid supply means, a liquid cir- 7 culating' impeller in the vat, and a'driving motor for said impeller, control means for said apparatus comprising a switch arranged to connect said motorto a source of electrical supply, cams controlling the operation of said valve and said switch 1 in a predetermined cycle of operation, an electromagnetic device controlling the operation of said earns, a manually operable control device controlling the energization of said electromagnetic device to operate said cams, a second switch arranged to control said electromagnetic device to move said cams to a controlling position having an inactive position and an active position wherein said electromagnetic device is controlled to advance said shaft, a cam controlled by said electromagnetic device for moving said second switch to said inactive position, a second electromagnetic device arranged to efiect the operation of said switch to said active position to efiect the control of said first electromagnetic device, a third switch arranged to connect the operating coil of said second electromagnetic device in the armature circuit of said motor so that its energization is substantially proportional to the magnitude of the armature current of said motor, and a cam operated by said first electromagnetic device for operating said third switch to connect said coil in said armature circuit of said motor.

9. In dishwashing apparatus having a vat means for supplying liquid to and draining liquid from the vat, valves controlling the liquid supply and draining means respectively, a liquid circulating impeller in the vat, and a driving motor for said impeller, a control system for said apparatus comprising a source of electrical supply for said motor, a switch arranged to connect said motor to said source of supply, cams controlling said valves and said switch respectively, a cam shaft for said cams arranged when operated to successive controlling positions to cause said cams to operate said valve and switch in a predetermined cycle of operation, an electromagnetic device mechanically connected to said shaft to operate it to successive controlling positions by successive operations of said electromagnetic device,

a manually operable switch controlling the energization of said electromagnetic device to eflect the operation of said shaft to its successive controlling positions, a second switch controlling the energization of said electromagnetic device having an open position and a closed position wherein it effects the energization of said electromagnetic device, a cam on said shaft controlling said second switch to move it to its open position, a second electromagnetic device controlling said second switch arranged when energized to effect the operation thereof to said closed position to control said first electromagnetic device, a third switch controlling the energization of said second electromagnetic device arranged in one position of said shaft to connect said motor to said supply source through the operating coil of said second electromagnetic device whereby said coil is enerized in accordance with the armature current of said motor to eifect the operation of said first electromagnetic device to operate said cam shaft to shut the liquid supply valve when the armature current of said motor attains a predetermined magnitude, said cams being arranged on said shaft so that in a certain predetermined position of said shaft said liquid supply and drain valves are opened simultaneously whereby liquid is supplied continuously to saidvat and drained continuously therefrom.

10. In dishwashing apparatus provided with a vat, a valve to control the supply of cleaning liquid to the vat, liquid circulating means in the vat, and a motor to drive the circulating means, control means for said apparatus comprising a control shaft .for said valve arranged in one position to open the valve and in a second position to close the valve, control means for said shaft including a member by the manual operation of which said shaft is moved to said one position to open said valve to supply liquid to said vat, and means responsive to the load on said motor to move said control shaft automatically to said second position to close the valve and stop the supply of liquid to the vat when the load on the motor, increasing because of the increasing amount .of liquid in the vat, reaches a predetermined magnitude corresponding to a predetermined amount of liquid in the vat.

11. In washing apparatus provided with a vat, in combination liquid supply and drain valves for said vat, power-operated means for circulating liquid in said vat, control means for said valves comprising a control member arranged when moved to a first selected position to open said supply valve and to close said drain valve so that liquid supplied to the vat is retained therein for circulation by said power-operated means, and when moved to a second selected position to close said liquid supply valve while permitting said drain valve to remain closed, means controlling said control member operably associated with said liquid circulating means to respond to a condition of operation thereof that varies as the quantity of liquid in said vat varies and with said control member to automatically move it to said second selected position when a predetermined quantity of liquid has been supplied to said vat.

JESSE H. CLARK. 

